Emergency Preparedness has never been more important than it is now, after a world-wide pandemic, wintery power outages creating devastation across Texas, and shortages on toilet paper and other essential items. During the uncertain times of the past year, many people have recognized the importance of being prepared, turning to self storage to store their supplies. The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends keeping at least two weeks of food and supplies on hand in case of an emergency. So, here’s what we want to know: Are you ready for an emergency? It never hurts to be prepared. We’ve put together tips on how to start an emergency preparedness kit and why you need one.
General Emergency Preparedness
Whether you’re preparing for the zombie apocalypse or the next worldwide pandemic, it’s important to be ready for disaster. Make sure you know which threats are most common in your area, whether it’s fires, earthquakes, flash floods, or all of the above. Know the warning signs for your region, and prepare an action plan that includes evacuation and communication with loved ones.
Emergency Supplies Checklist
Need emergency preparedness inspiration? Think of it as prepping for a long camping trip. What would you pack if you were going camping for a month? Two months? Five months?
Make an emergency preparedness supplies checklist, so you are ready for whatever disaster comes your way. Here’s a helpful starting point:
Tools
- Crank radio with extra batteries
- Sewing kit
- Whistle
- Hand tools
- Candles
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Duct tape
- Local maps
Hygiene Items
- Hand sanitizer
- Soap
- Detergent
- Trash bags
- Bleach
- Feminine supplies
- Toiletry Items
- Toilet paper
- Paper towels
- Medications
Clothing and Bedding Items
- Tent (Here’s a round-up of some of the best camping tents!)
- Sleeping bags or blankets
- Rain gear
- Hard hat and gloves
- At least one change of clothes for every member of your family
When prepping your emergency preparedness kit, don’t forget pet supplies, such as leashes, ID tags, and food, and baby supplies, such as diapers, formula, bottles, and medication. Here are helpful tips on food and water supplies in an emergency.
If you need help with additional emergency preparedness, consider the following resources:
How to use a storage unit in your emergency preparedness plan
Renting a storage unit gives you plenty of space to store your supplies. If you’re building an emergency kit, we know you’ll need a lot of space to store it all. From extra blankets and clothing, flashlights, batteries, freeze dried food, masks, and first aid supplies, the amount of space you’ll need to store it all will quickly multiply.
While it’s important to keep some of your emergency supplies at home (especially a first aid kit!), it’s a good idea to keep some of them at another location. What if you can’t access your home due to a natural disaster or some other emergency? Your emergency supplies will be waiting for you in your storage unit, as a backup.
Another benefit of keeping emergency supplies in a storage unit is that it keeps your home life normal. Your emergency supplies won’t be taking up space in your home, constantly reminding you of a potential impending disaster. Make your home a positive space that keeps you uplifted and inspired. Save your storage unit for your zombie apocalypse survival tools.
At TMS Self Storage, we are experts in storing valuables. Contact our staff and we’ll help you figure out the perfect size storage unit for you, based on the number of boxes and items you need to store. Ask our staff about ways to save on your storage unit. We offer a number of savings packages, designed to fit all different scenarios. Did you know we offer a referral bonus? For every customer you refer to us, we will pay you a cash bonus for each referral who signs a contract. Plus, there’s no limit to how many referrals an individual can make. Refer all your friends who are building emergency preparedness kits, and we’ll pay you $20 for every one. Yes, it’s really that easy to make money. Reach out today to reserve your storage unit!